Raccoons test positive for rabies in Lowellville

Staff report

LOWELLVILLE

A second raccoon has tested positive for rabies, according to the Mahoning County District Board of Health. The first raccoon tested positive earlier Friday. Both raccoons were found in Lowellville and had come into contact with a domestic dog.

The health board has since vaccinated the dog that came into contact with the raccoons. The dog will be quarantined for 180 days as a precaution.

The ODH confirmed a rabid raccoon found in Boardman in June.

Rabies can be fatal and typically is transmitted through bites from raccoons, skunks, foxes or bats. To reduce the spread of rabies, vaccinate your pets and minimize contact with wildlife.

If you are bitten by an animal with rabies, wash the bite thoroughly and contact your physician and your local health department.

If you find a sick animal in Youngstown that is not decayed and does not have significant head damage, contact the Youngstown City Health District at 330-743-3333.

If you find such an animal in any other Mahoning County community, contact the Mahoning County District Board of Health at 330-270-2855, ext. 2.